An instant communication system to keep vulnerable people in touch with their carers is being piloted in the region.

Sunderland City Council and the Carers' Centre have been working with specialist software communi-cations company Worldmark to develop a pioneering system.

Kevin Devine, from Sunderland Carer's Centre, said: "This pilot scheme could change so many people's lives. Carers can go out to get shopping or medicine reassured by the fact that those in their care can press a button on their mobile phones to get help."